10 Incredible Places To Watch Hornbills In The Wild In India

Anaimalai HillsSituated across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the Anaimalai Hills are home to the Malabar grey hornbill and the great hornbill. India’s first Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation has been established in this area. Namdapha National ParkAt least five hornbill species have been recorded in this national park in Arunachal Pradesh. The dense canopies and low human disturbance allow species like the wreathed hornbill and the great hornbill to thrive.Periyar National ParkThis national park in Kerala is a repository of rare, endemic, and endangered flora and fauna. Boat rides on the lake and guided forest walks will help you spot the Malabar grey hornbill and the great hornbill here.Pakke Tiger ReserveThis tiger reserve in Arunachal Pradesh runs a Hornbill Nest Adoption Program (HNAP), where Nyishi villagers are engaged in finding, monitoring and protecting hornbill nests and roosts. You can spot wreathed and great hornbills here.Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary And Mollem National ParkThe largest wildlife preserve in Goa is the best place to see the Indian grey hornbill, the great hornbill and the Malabar pied hornbill in their natural habitat. The trails often echo with their loud wingbeats and vocalisations during the fruiting season.Khangchendzonga National ParkThis UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sikkim is home to the elusive rufous-necked hornbill, whose sightings are possible during the summer when the bird descends to lower altitudes for feeding.Dandeli Wildlife SanctuaryThis wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka is home to nearly 270 bird species, including the great hornbill and the Malabar pied hornbill. Early morning and evening boat rides along the Kali River are the best time to spot hornbills flying across the treetops or calling from fig trees.Kanha National ParkAs Madhya Pradesh’s largest national park, Kanha has recorded over 300 species of birds within its bounds, including the Indian grey hornbill and the Malabar pied hornbill. The best way to see them is in a 4WD Jeep safari.Nameri National ParkAssam’s Nameri National Park has riverine forests and open patches near the Bharali River that provide ideal feeding and nesting habitats for the great hornbill, the wreathed hornbill and the rufous-necked hornbill.Buxa Tiger ReserveThis tiger reserve in West Bengal has a mix of riverine and evergreen forests that provide year-round hornbill habitat. Guided safaris will increase your chances of sighting the oriental pied hornbill, the rufous-necked hornbill and the great hornbill.10 Of The Most Colourful And Beautiful Birds Found In The HimalayasRead more